AN IMPERIAL RUSSIAN SHASHKA WITH ALEXANDER III BLADE AND ALEXANDER II HILT

This Imperial Russian shashka is unusual in that the blade is younger than the handle that it is set within, implying a loss of the handle's original blade and later replacement using a spare blade. This may have been done during the period by the arsenal. The hilt, bearing the cipher of Alexander II on the pommel, is of brass with a decorated knuckle bow and a black celluloid grip. The double-fullered blade is engraved with the cipher of Alexander III and has many nicks on the blade, possibly from use. It ends in a spatulated tip. The scabbard is of stitched black leather with brass fittings.

L: 38 in. (96.52 cm.);
Condition Report: Blade is pitted and has many nicks, consistent with use and age. Brass fixtures are somewhat patinated. Leather of scabbard is worn and may be a later replacement, though likely still old.